Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)

Goldenseal root is one of my favourite herbs. It seems to act as a general immune system booster with antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal properties.

I usually recommend it as capsules for helping winter illnesses such as coughs and generally for boosting the body’s immune response.

It seems to be effective against chronic infections, particularly 

• chronic urinary tract infections

• respiratory tract infections

• allergic rhinitis and hayfever

• gastric irritation

The tincture can be diluted and used to ease inflammation of mucous membranes including:

• mouth ulcers

• sore, inflammed gums

• blepharitis (inflammed eyelids)



N.B as with all herbal remedies, please read the label and consult your doctor ir a professional herbalist or naturopath if you are unsure if you should use it and particularly if you already take other medications.

Goldenseal root has been over-harvested in the wild, but is now being grown commercially in North America and in Scotland (Poyntzfield Nursery). Quality products are not cheap and there are inferior products on the market.

My recommendations are the Natures Way Goldenseal Root capsules for ease of use, or Nature's Answer Goldenseal tincture if you wish to use it as a mouth wash or eye wash.